Red carpet welcomes Naugatuck students

NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTNH) — The outside of Maple Hill Elementary School in Naugatuck looked like a scene out of Hollywood with the red carpet, cameras, and large crowd. Playing the role of the A-list celebrities are the students.

For the last five years the school has rolled out the red carpet to welcome students back on the first day. It’s also a photo op for the parents who essentially play the role of the paparazzi.

“They all feel special going into the school and it just gives them that little extra because some kids aren’t excited to go back to school,” Judy Schilling, Naugatuck said.

“This was just a way to welcome the children back and it brings a level of excitement,” said Principal Cheryl Kane.

Just like a real Hollywood event there’s a great deal of controlled chaos. Hundreds of parents gather just to get a glimpse of their son or daughter going inside. For many of the students, this isn’t their first rodeo, so to speak. They look forward to their walk of fame.

Red Carpet at Maple Hill Elementary School in Naugatuck

One girl said she likes it “because everybody claps for you.”

But don’t let all the attention fool you. Many of these kids are happy to be back in the classroom.

“You get to learn and then at recess you get to meet new friends, have fun and play with new people if you want to,” a student said.

“I’m happy to go back to school,” another student said.

The arrival for day two won’t look quite like this, but the red carpet will be rolled up, waiting for next year.